The habits you might want to start teaching your kids NOW

We all have bad habits that we take the time to try and correct. Some of those habits can be incredibly hard to shake. For many of us this is because, in part, we never learned how to. The habits we pick up from childhood can some of the most firmly rooted. That’s why, above all else, we need to consider what habits we’re creating for our children, too.

Learning how to exercise can be one of the toughest habits to try and teach yourself. Those who don’t have much experience getting active can have a lot of trouble finding the motivation to start, as well as the perseverance to get past the initial discomfort. Playtime can provide a lot of the exercise your kids need in the first few years, but as they start growing, if they’re not inclined to sports, you might want to try some basic exercises alongside them. Having company while tackling a tough activity can make it all the easier and they are more likely to stick with it if you’re right there beside them.

Healthy eating

Bad eating habits start right from the very beginning. It’s easy and convenient to treat kids with candy, ice cream, soda, and the like. All too often, however, those treats become an everyday thing and part of their lifestyle. The sooner you can overhaul their diet in a healthier direction, the better. It’s better still if they don’t develop the dependency or craving for super unhealthy food in the first place. You shouldn’t completely take choice away from them, but you can teach them good food habits by limiting their options somewhat.

Oral hygiene

A smile can be the key to confidence, but it’s easy to take it for granted if you’re happy with your teeth. If you’re not, the impact on your self-esteem and comfort around other people can be immeasurable. Teaching your children to stick to an oral hygiene routine from the very beginning is crucial and must be coupled with regular visits to a kids dentist. Again, this habit is best taught alongside them. Make a little family moment of brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash every morning and every night. Not only does it make it feel more natural, it makes it easier for you to ensure they’re actually keeping up with it.

Responsibility

Not all habits are physical, either. Regardless of what career path they may choose later in life, there is no skill more essential than being able to manage your money. From saving money to budgeting to spending wisely, the earlier you can teach your kids about money, the better. One facet of financial life that many parents miss is credit, too. People get into debt because they don’t thoroughly understand the risks. When your children start getting into their teens, helping them learn with a (very closely monitored) credit card could help them see borrowing and loans much more responsibly in the future.

Learned behaviors stick a lot more than we might expect them to. Start teaching your kids healthy habits today and they will be a part of their life for much longer.